A YOUNG woman from Stevenston is swapping North Ayrshire for one of West Africa’s most poverty stricken countries to realise her ambition of helping others.

Courtney Gemmell, 20, has signed up to take part in a threemonth volunteering expedition in Burkina Faso, where she’ll be tackling hard hitting issues such as HIV, youth unemployment and the human rights of disabled citizens.

Courtney signed up to the mission following the completion of her 18-month stint as a Youth Work Modern Apprentice (MA) at the Council.

During her time as an MA, Courtney worked tirelessly to improve the lives of North Ayrshire’s youngsters including the development of a ground-breaking initiative aimed at challenging the stigma of mental health issues in young people – called the Mental Health Toolkit.

Courtney said: “During my apprenticeship I’ve experienced and accomplished much more than I ever imagined and the introduction of the Mental Health Toolkit was the pinnacle moment.

“But I feel as though I’ve done so much in North Ayrshire that I’m now ready to go out there and inspire change on a much bigger scale.

“Burkina Faso is one of the world’s most deprived countries where poverty and inequality is accepted as part and parcel of everyday life.

“I’m going to be working with women, young people and the disabled on all-things education, health and wellbeing, employ ment and human rights.

“I’m under no doubts that the experience will shock, scare and possibly change me as a person, but I also know that it will be hugely rewarding.”

Elma Murray, North Ayrshire Council’s Chief Executive, added: “I won’t lie, we’re all going to miss having Courtney around. However, she leaves behind an incredible legacy with her sector-leading work on youth mental health.

“We could not be any more proud of the amazing, inspiring young woman that she’s become and know that this experience is the next step in a great journey ahead.”

Courtney sets off for Africa in April where she’ll join eight other Brits on the three-month project.

She’s hoping to raise £800 which she’ll put to good use in the communities she visits. To help reach her target, Courtney is holding a race night this Saturday (February 17) in Potters Snooker Club in Stevenston.

Tickets cost £5 and all proceeds will go towards her volunteering efforts.

Additionally, a JustGiving page has been set up for anyone wishing to make a donation online here.